LEGISLATION EXPANDS PROTECTION FOR VULNERABLE ADULTS

Persons making powers of attorney will have more choice and vulnerable adults will receive more protection from abuse as a result of legislation introduced today.

Amendments to The Powers of Attorney Act, 2002 will allow persons making powers of attorney to give attorneys decision-making power concerning personal matters as well as financial matters.

"These amendments provide autonomy and flexibility to seniors and others concerned about a future loss of decision-making ability," Justice Minister Frank Quennell said. "The appointment of a personal attorney is a middle ground between ad hoc arrangements and Court appointment of a personal decision-maker."

The Powers of Attorney Amendment Act, 2004 will help protect people who give decision-making authority over their personal affairs to another person through a power of attorney. The amendments also clarify the authority of those appointed through a power of attorney to make financial decisions on another's behalf.

The use of personal powers of attorney allows an individual to appoint a trusted person to make personal decisions on his or her behalf when he or she is no longer able to do so.

The amendments also clarify that individuals given authority to make financial decisions through a power of attorney may not:

- make or change a will in the name of the person who has appointed them; or
- designate themselves as beneficiaries of the grantor's property.

The legislation was developed by a committee of community agencies and government departments in response to a report by the Steering Committee on the Abuse of Adults in Vulnerable Circumstances.

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For More Information, Contact:

Andrew Dinsmore Justice Regina Phone: (306) 787-8606